Collage showing a large group of students in formal attire on a staircase and smaller scenes of students collaborating at tables during a school event.Congratulations to Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) high school students who demonstrated leadership and professionalism by earning recognition at a recent state‑level competition hosted by the Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA).

The following students earned honors at the DECA Grand Awards and qualified for the upcoming International Career Development Conference.

Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School

  • Dylan Tibayan, Principles of Finance

Gainesville High School

  • Dylan Nguyen and Daniel Pebenito, Hospitality Services Team Decision Making

Gar-Field High School

  • Alina Bockarie, Professional Selling Event

Woodbridge High School

  • Saya Sharon, Automotive Services Marketing
  • Allison Kahak and Izabel Ketchledge, Financial Operations Research
  • Jaxon Yarborough, Retail Merchandising

Benjamin Stodola, a career and technical education specialist for PWCS, said the DECA conference provides students with a professional environment to strengthen communication, critical-thinking, and industry‑specific skills.

“DECA helps prepare students for future jobs,” Stodola said. “There are scenarios that include finance, business management, marketing, and hospitality. The ultimate goal is giving students an opportunity to have a professional experience before leaving high school.”

Students described their individual DECA journeys as both challenging and rewarding. At Gar‑Field High, junior Alina Bockarie serves as her chapter’s president after helping restart the club this year when the previous advisor retired.

“I took the initiative to talk to a sponsor and get DECA started back up,” Bockarie said. “Because I took responsibility for the club, it put me in the position of president.”

Oscar Chen, a senior at Colgan High, shared that DECA helped him step outside his comfort zone. “I’ve met so many great people and new communities,” Chen said. “I’m definitely nervous, but I’m excited to compete and show the judges what I’ve learned.”

Stodola concluded by noting the growth he sees in students over time. “You see tremendous growth from freshman year to senior year,” Stodola said. “The consistency of the organization builds confidence. By the time students leave high school, they’re much more comfortable in professional settings.”

DECA hosts competitive events that provide students with firsthand experience in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management through real‑world business scenarios. The program is designed to build confidence and encourage students to their highest potential as they prepare for college and career success.